The Thief of Always by Clive Barker is a captivating children's fantasy novel lauded for its imaginative storytelling and haunting illustrations. The book has been praised for its compelling themes and vivid world-building. However, some critics feel the pacing is uneven and the conclusion abrupt. Overall, it’s a dark and enchanting read that resonates with both young and older audiences.

Readers who enjoy dark fantasy with moral undertones, like fans of Neil Gaiman’s Coraline or Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, will be captivated by Clive Barker’s The Thief of Always. This book is ideal for those who appreciate imaginative storytelling blended with lessons on desire and consequence.

In The Thief of Always by Clive Barker, a bored young boy named Harvey Swick is lured to a seemingly perfect house that magically changes seasons each day, but he soon uncovers its dark secrets and ultimately seeks to escape its sinister grip. The book features the potentially distressing death of a pet cat.

Fantastical / Mysterious / Dark / Adventurous / Bittersweet

- Clive Barker not only wrote The Thief of Always but also illustrated the book, bringing his vivid imagination to life with his own artwork.
- The book was published in 1992 and is sometimes categorized as a dark fantasy or horror novel for children, showcasing Barker's ability to blend genres and appeal to both younger and older audiences.
- The Thief of Always has been adapted into other media, including a graphic novel adaptation published in 2005, demonstrating its lasting impact and appeal.

**Harvey Swick**  
A ten-year-old boy who embarks on an adventure at Holiday House, where his curiosity and courage lead him to uncover the truth behind its enchanting facade.

**Lulu**  
A longtime resident of Holiday House, characterized by her freckled skin and frizzy blonde hair, who grapples with the reality of her desires and the consequences of accepting the House's gifts.

**Wendell**  
Harvey's bespectacled friend who enjoys the pleasures of Holiday House but remains oblivious to its dangers until faced with a frightening realization.

**Mrs. Griffin**  
The kind-hearted cook of Holiday House, whose mysterious past hints at a long history with the enchanting abode and its sinister secrets.

**Rictus**  
A charismatic, quasi-vampiric figure who lures children like Harvey to Holiday House with promises of fun and happiness.

**Jive**  
A nervously energetic brother to Rictus who encourages Harvey's exploration of his darker instincts through dangerous tricks.

**Marr**  
A slovenly sister to Rictus and Jive, capable of transforming children into monstrous forms, and is known for her grotesque appearance.

**Carna**  
A dangerous, screeching servant of Mr. Hood that hunts children attempting to escape from Holiday House, its terrifying form underscoring its lethal role.

**Mr. Hood**  
The enigmatic and rarely seen owner of Holiday House, whose presence is felt through the estate's manipulative enchantments and its sinister hold over the children.  

**Fish**  
Eerie inhabitants of a shadowy lake near Holiday House, representing the lost souls of children ensnared by the House's false promises.

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The Thief Of Always

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